finishing bench top

[William R. Monroe]

Mike,

If you want to fill the pores, why not use a pore filler and be done with 
it?  Then a couple three coats of poly.  I wouldn't think, though, on an old 
door that you would really have much trouble with splinters.

Also, do you really think it is necessary to deal with the porosity of the 
oak?  Do you think this kind of open pore wood lends itself to splintering, 
therefore, fill the pores, and build up a thick coat to prevent that?

I ask because I'm curious what your thoughts are.  I've not had this 
experience with oak, but haven't used it for a workbench, either.

Best,
William R. Monroe


> Joel,
>
> With an oak door I expect you've got some very open grain.  For that, I 
> would use polyurethane, and begin with several coats of sealer, thoroughly 
> sanded, until the grain is filled and the surface is smooth.  Then a 
> couple finish coats of gloss, which is harder than either sealer or satin 
> finish.  Anything less, and you'll be dealing with lots of  splinters and 
> surface defects.
>
> Mike